Botox Aftercare FAQs

Posted January 10, 2017byhealth and aesthetics

Read our article on Botox aftercare, and what exactly happens after your had your treatment.

How soon after having Botox can I consume alcohol?

Drinking alcohol can increase fluid retention and thin the blood, both of which can intensify any bruising you may experience after Botox treatment. Some people will find that they experience mild bruising at the needle sites after having Botox injections — if alcohol is present in the system this can exacerbate the bruising. For this reason it’s advisable to avoid drinking alcohol for a day or two before and after the procedure.

Apart from potentially increasing the chances of bruising immediately after the treatment, drinking alcohol is highly unlikely to have any long-term detrimental effects on the results of your treatment.

If you have a special event coming up where you are likely to be drinking alcohol, we recommend having Botox at least a week before the event as it can take 7-14 days for the full effects of Botox to be seen and for any bruising to settle down.

What painkillers can I take before or after the procedure?

The needles used to administer Botox are very fine so most people will experience minimal pain (if any) during the procedure. However, if you want to feel as comfortable as possible during the procedure then you can take non-anti-inflammatory medication before and after the procedure. Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, thin the blood, which can exacerbate any bruising after the procedure. Therefore, if you do want to take painkillers before and after the procedure, paracetamol is the safest option.

Always let us know what medication you are on before having a Botox treatment.

How soon can I exercise after Botox?

It’s best to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours after having Botox. Strenuous exercise can result in bruising and, in rarer cases, the Botox could move to other areas of your face, causing the muscles in these areas to become temporarily paralysed. You should also avoid doing yoga for 24 hours after having Botox as inverted positions can cause Botox move to other muscles in the face.

How soon after having Botox can I fly?

There are concerns that the changes in air pressure in an aeroplane cabin can affect the results of Botox. Changes in air pressure can mean that the Botox can move to other muscles in the face. We advise our patients to avoid flying for 24-48 hours after treatment.

Can I drive after having the procedure?

Yes, Botox injections will not affect your ability to drive. If you would prefer to take public transport home after your procedure, there are excellent public transport links from our Farnham clinic.

Can I touch my face after having Botox?

Yes, you can continue a normal skin routine after having Botox, including touching your face to cleanse and moisturise the skin. However, avoid massaging or rubbing the face for at least 6 hours, but ideally 24 hours, after having the procedure.

How soon can I have treatments such as facials or a microdermabrasion after having Botox?

It’s best to wait at least 7 days before having facials or a microdermabrasion after having Botox. You should also avoid chemical peels, laser treatment and sun beds for at least 7 days.

How long is recovery time from Botox?

A Botox treatment takes around 15 minutes to complete and you will usually see the first effects of the treatment around 3 to 5 days later. The results of your treatment may take up to 14 days to take full effect. There can be some slight swelling (similar to midge bites) after treatment but this should settle within the hour. There is also a minimal risk of bruising.

How long will the results of Botox last?

The results of Botox will last for 10-12 weeks in most patients.

What happens when the results of Botox wear off?

After around 3 to 4 months you will gradually start to notice the areas that have been treated by Botox will return to their pre-Botox look. Having Botox does not worsen wrinkles so if you feel your wrinkles look more pronounced after the Botox treatment has worn off, it will most likely be because you have become used to your face looking smoother.

How will I know if I’ve had an allergic reaction to Botox?

An allergic reaction to Botox is very rare but if you notice symptoms such as itching and swelling of the face, rashes, dizziness or breathing issues then seek medical help immediately. If the site into which you had the Botox injected is red and tender then this could indicate that the area has become infected — this is extremely rare if your Botox was administered by a reputable clinic with qualified staff.

Can I do anything after having Botox to ensure the treatment works as well as possible?

Yes, you can exercise the muscles treated with Botox for 4 hours after having the treatment by frowning, squinting or raising your eyebrows. This will help to work the Botox into your facial muscles.

How soon can I apply make-up after having treatment?

We recommend not applying make-up for at least 4 hours after having treatment.